Abstract: Provided is a composition for preventing or treating erectile dysfunction including angiopoietin-4 protein as an active ingredient. Angiopoietin-4 protein increases an endothelial cell-specific protein level to induce regeneration of penile vascular endothelial cells, thereby increasing intracavernous pressure. Thus, angiopoietin-4 protein may be efficiently applied to prevention or treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Abstract: A sub-atmospheric, negative pressure is applied to a growth factor starting material, such as whole blood, to release growth factors and plasma in a non-destructive medium. The released growth factors having a weight of about 70-76 kDaltons are applied in either a filtered or unfiltered state to a wound to promote healing of the wound. The released growth factors are applied topically to the area of a surface wound to effect healing. The released growth factors are also injected into soft tissue, such as a torn tendon, to promote tissue growth and healing. The growth factors are released in one method from a patient's own blood. In another method the growth factors are released from a whole blood source and freeze dried by conventional lyophilization. Then at a later date, the freeze dried product is reconstituted by normal saline for treatment of a patient's wound or for use in a surgical procedure.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and compositions for modulating energy metabolism and weight in mammals, in particular by modulating thermogenesis associated with brown fat, including thermogenesis by brown fat or brown fat cells, adaptive thermogenesis by brown fat or brown fat cells, thermogenic capacity of brown fat or brown fat cells, or a combination thereof. More specifically, methods and compositions provided herein for treating or preventing obesity, or methods and compositions for identifying compounds effective for treating or preventing obesity are taught in connection with ligands such as B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), their receptors, and molecules that modulate the interactions between the ligands and receptors.

Abstract: A synthetic, flexible tissue matrix and methods for repairing hyaline cartilage defects in a joint using the flexible tissue matrix are described. The flexible tissue matrix includes a high molecular weight polycaprolactone polymer entangled with a polysaccharide such as hyaluronic acid. In the methods, autologous bone mesenchymal stem cells are introduced to a joint by a microfracturing technique, and a membrane made of the flexible matrix is applied to the joint. Cartilage which forms in the joint is hyaline cartilage rather than fibrocartilage.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel non-woven fabrics containing growth and differentiation factor proteins. Said fabrics are specifically designed to accelerate tissue regeneration and wound healing processes of mammalian tissues. Furthermore, the invention provides wound dressings, pads or implants comprising the novel non-woven fabrics.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the design and composition of a depot implant for optimal delivery of growth factors to treat osteoporotic bone, in that such depot implant is constructed to be in a cylinder (rod) or sphere shape and have a natural or synthetic polymer scaffold with or without impregnated calcium phosphate particles. The density of the depot is higher than a typical BMP sponge carrier to facilitate it's implantation and slower release of the growth factor. The scaffold is such that it has adequate porosity and pore size to facilitate growth factor seeding and diffusion throughout the whole of the bone structure resulting in increased bone mineral density in the osteoporotic bone. In addition, the shape of the depot implant allows for delivery through a cannula or large bore needle.

Abstract: A method for promoting bone formation is provided. More specifically, a method for promoting bone formation by promoting osteoclast formation is provided. In one embodiment, an implant comprising an implantable material and an osteoclast stimulating substance is provided.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of promoting neuronal growth by administering IGFBPL-1, or an agent that increases or stabilizes IGFBPL-1 activity to a subject in need thereof, e.g., a subject in need of treating optic nerve degeneration.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for promoting organ development in warm blooded animals, and in particular in certain aspects a premature infant or fetus. Compositions and methods are also provided for the administration of at least one colony stimulating factor-1 protein (CSF-1), precursor, variant, analogue, derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, or otherwise, at least one nucleic acid molecule encoding colony stimulating factor-1 protein (CSF-1), precursor, variant, analogue, derivative thereof, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an isolated polypeptide comprising (a) the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 21; or (b) an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical to SEQ ID NO: 21, and to therapeutic treatments based thereon.

Abstract: There are provided an angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) derived peptides, polypeptides, and peptide complexes, and a method for inhibition of binding between Ang2 and integrin and prevention and/or treatment of a disease caused by the activation of Ang2 or the binding between Ang2 and integrin using the peptide, polypeptides, and peptide complexes.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method for therapeutic repair of an injury to bone or tissue comprising providing a structural component, wherein the structural component repairs the injury; and providing a therapeutic fluid, wherein the therapeutic fluid is located within the structural component.

Abstract: The present invention provides compounds and compositions for the amelioration of arthritis and joint injuries by inducing mesenchymal stem cells into chondrocytes.

Abstract: A method of treating neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, with LGF administered systemically.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions comprising growth hormone linked to extended recombinant polypeptide (XTEN), isolated nucleic acids encoding the compositions and vectors and host cells containing the same, and methods of making and using such compositions in treatment of growth hormone-related diseases, disorders, and conditions.

Abstract: A method for treating a vascular-related disease in a subject in need thereof, includes administering to the subject a peptide having a sequence Xaa-Gly-Asp. The peptide may have a sequence of SEQ ID NOS: 1, 2, 4, 6 to 10. The vascular-related disease may be edema and/or ischemia caused by blood leakage of blood vessel walls, damages of blood vessels or abnormal angiogenesis.

Abstract: System and methods for isolation of collagen and other fibrous tissue from adipose tissue are described herein. The method of the present invention isolates the collagen from adipose tissue by sonication. The tissue to be sonicated is placed in a container or a flow cell transparent to ultrasound waves. After sonication the sonicated material is filtered out through the bottom of the flow cell and the sonicated collagen is trapped in the filter, which may be taken for further processing. The isolated collagen can then be combined with a suitable carrier for re-injection to correct various tissue defects such as wrinkles, to form a carrier for the stem cells, a filler, and matrix for new collagen production by injecting into the desired area of the host.

Abstract: Interleukin-10 (IL-10) conjugated via a linker to one or more polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules at a single amino acid residue of the IL-10, and a method for preparing the same, are provided. The method produces a stable mono-pegylated IL-10, which retains IL-10 activity, where pegylation is selective for the N-terminus on one subunit of IL-10 with little or no formation of monomeric IL-10. The method also provides a substantially homogenous population of mono-PEG-IL-10.

Abstract: A novel etiological hypothesis for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is proposed describing autoimmune attack of ATP: Cob(I)alamin adenosyltransferase (ATR) thereby inhibiting synthesis of (5?-deoxy-5?-adenosyl)cobamide (referred to as 5?-deoxyadenosylcobalmin or AdoCbl) from Vitamin B 12 providing a basis for therapeutic design and diagnostic methods. Pharmaceutical compositions for therapy of MS, inflammatory neurological diseases and neurodegenerative diseases utilizing AdoCbl, growth hormones, immunomodulators, interleukins, other therapeutic agents, and physiotherapy are also described.

Abstract: Disclosed are pharmaceutical preparations for, and methods for determining, appropriate and effective treatment with therapeutic agents comprising a single species of anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody or therapeutic agents comprising a plurality of species of such antibodies, as well as kits useful for making such determinations.

Abstract: The invention provides a particulate composition adapted for forming a bone graft substitute cement upon mixing with an aqueous solution, including i) a calcium sulfate hemihydrate powder having a bimodal particle distribution and a median particle size of about 5 to about 20 microns, wherein the calcium sulfate hemihydrate is present at a concentration of at least about 70 weight percent based on the total weight of the particulate composition; ii) a monocalcium phosphate monohydrate powder; and iii) a ?-tricalcium phosphate powder having a median particle size of less than about 20 microns. Bone graft substitute cements made therefrom, a bone graft substitute kit comprising the particulate composition, methods of making and using the particulate composition, and articles made from the bone graft substitute cement are also provided.

Abstract: Dermatological and cosmetic compositions and methods are provided to reduce the appearance of biological and/or environmentally-caused aging.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel activin IIB5 receptor polypeptides capable of binding and inhibiting the activities of activin A, myostatin, or GDF-11. The present invention also provides polynucleotides, vectors and host cells capable of producing the receptor polypeptides. Compositions and methods for treating muscle-wasting, metabolic and other disorders are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides indane acetic acid and their derivatives and methods for the treating and/or preventing of Alzheimer's diseases.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel composition comprising an implant, scaffold or construct bound to a biological or chemical moiety. The bound moiety has the ability to bind to a component of the extracellular matrix of biological tissue, allowing the implant to be bound to the biological tissue in a short period of time after implantation. The invention also relates to the use and manufacture of this novel composition, as well as a novel use for the protein CNA.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of assessing blood brain barrier permeability in an individual comprising selectively or specifically detecting a level of S 100BB homodimer in a sample of the individual, and comparing the level of S 100BB homodimer in the sample to a level of S 100B a control. The invention is also directed to methods of determining the effectiveness of a treatment for a neurological disorder wherein blood-brain barrier permeability is present in an individual in need thereof comprising detecting a level of S100B in a sample of the individual undergoing the treatment, and comparing the level of S 100B in the sample to the level of S100B in a sample from the individual obtained prior to treatment.

Abstract: Composition containing a chimeric neuregulin polypeptides and method of making such polypeptides are disclosed. The chimeric neuregulin comprises a first moiety of at least 10 amino acids, wherein the first moiety is derived from a first polypeptide; and a second moiety of at least 5 amino acids, wherein the second moiety is derived from a second polypeptide; wherein the first polypeptide is a neuregulin and the chimeric neuregulin exhibits an enhanced binding affinity to integrin, Erb 3, or Erb 4 comparing to that of the first neuregulin.

Abstract: It has been discovered that granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (“GM-CSF”) promotes migration of activated (but not differentiating) keratinocytes to wound sites. It was also discovered that GM-CSF increases the quantity and improves the quality of collagen. This growth factor specifically increases migration of keratinocytes of the “wound” phenotype but does not have significant effects upon differentiated keratinocytes. Examples demonstrate reversal of skin impairment in multiple animal models of diabetic skin imparment when provided in an effective amount over an effective time period. The examples also demonstrate the efficacy of the formulations in cosmetic applications.

Abstract: The present invention identifies that glomeruli express many neuron-specific and especially synapse-specific protein similarities. In particular, the present invention identifies Rab3A expression, including the expression of altered forms, as well as expression of other synapse-specific proteins including neurotransmitter receptors. The invention further identifies that modulation of the activity of these synapse-specific proteins results in modulation of podocytes.

Abstract: A growth factor delivery scaffold combines a heparin/fibrin-based delivery system (HBDS) with a backbone based on polymer nanofibers for tissue (e.g., tendon and ligament) repair. The scaffold has improved surgical handling properties compared to the gelatinous consistency of the prior art HBDS system and retains the capability for delivering mesenchymal cells and controlling the release of growth factors. One application for the scaffold is mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for flexor tendon repair. The scaffold can deliver growth factors in a sustained manner, can be implanted for flexor tendon repair, is biocompatible, and is not cytotoxic. The growth factor delivery scaffold may also be used in the surgical repair of an injury to bone, muscle, cartilage, or other tissues.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of treating rheumatoid arthritis in a patient comprising the steps of: a) providing a biological sample from a patient, b) measuring the level of soluble VE-cadherin in the biological sample obtained at step a); c) comparing said level of soluble VE-cadherin with a predetermined reference value, and if the level of soluble VE-cadherin measured at step b) is higher that the predetermined reference value, treating the patient until a basal level of soluble VE-cadherin is reached.

Abstract: The present application discloses a method of treating a disease that is treatable by therapeutic angiogenesis comprising administering to a needy subject an effective amount of a chimeric coiled coil molecule comprising a coiled-coil domain linked to a receptor binding domain of a ligand.

Abstract: It has been discovered that that certain growth factors can delay the ossification of a tissue site, such as a cranial suture, via the promotion of fibroblast differentiation and/or inhibition of osteoblast differentiation. Provided herein are methods for treating bone formation conditions or disorders, such as synostotic conditions, or ectopic mineralization conditions, via administration of compositions comprising connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and optionally other growth factors or fibroblast or progenitor cells, to a tissue site of a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: The various embodiments herein relate to an injectable matrix used for regeneration, reconstruction, repair or replacement of organ or tissue. The injectable matrix consists of a synthetic and natural polymer, a stem cell niche and nanoparticles in the form of cups filled with growth factor and physiologic agent. The embodiments herein also provide a method for regeneration, reconstruction, repair or replacement of organ or tissue. In the method, an injectable matrix is injected to create three dimensional matrix system or network in an area of the desired tissue or organ, migration of blood circulatory stem cells or tissue-specific progenitor cells occur to the injected area of the tissue or organ. The growth factors and physiological agent present in the nanocups are released. The stem cells proliferate and differentiate to form the desired organ or tissue.

Abstract: A controlled release system and manufacturing method is provided. The method comprises providing a first aqueous solution containing a hydrophilic drug and an alkaline agent, providing an organic solution containing a hydrophobic molecule, providing a second aqueous solution containing a hydrophilic surfactant, mixing the first hydrophilic solution with the organic solution to form a first emulsion, and mixing the first emulsion with a second aqueous solution to form a second emulsion containing delayed-release microsphere.

Abstract: Alphabodies that specifically bind to cytokines or growth factor and/or their receptors, as well as polypeptides that comprise or essentially consist of such Alphabodies. Further nucleic acids encoding such Alphabodies; methods for preparing such Alphabodies and polypeptides; host cells expressing or capable of expressing such Alphabodies and polypeptides; compositions, and in particular pharmaceutical compositions, that comprise such Alphabodies, polypeptides, nucleic acids and/or host cells; and uses of such Alphabodies or polypeptides, nucleic acids, host cells and/or compositions, in particular for prophylactic, therapeutic or diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: Described, in certain aspects of the invention, are multilaminate medical graft products, as well as methods for preparing and using the same. An illustrative multilaminate medical graft product of the invention comprises a first layer of remodelable extracellular matrix (ECM) material bonded to a second layer of remodelable ECM material, wherein the first material layer is enriched with a growth factor relative to the second material layer. Such a remodelable ECM material may be comprised of submucosa from a warm-blooded vertebrate, for example, porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS).

Abstract: The present invention provides a composition that may be used as an implant or a bone graft substitute or extender for filling voids and/or promoting fusion of osseous tissues. The implant may comprise ceramic granules such as calcium phosphate granules and one or more polysaccharide excipients, and may be in the form of a putty or flowable paste. Optionally, the implant may also comprise a growth factor such as a bone morphogenetic protein.

Abstract: The use of lipopeptides as inducers of NF-?B for the protection of mammals from the effects of apoptosis is described.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to tissue differentiation factor (TDF) analogs. More specifically, the invention relates to structure-based methods and compositions useful in designing, identifying, and producing molecules which act as functional modulators of TDF-like receptors. The invention further relates to methods of detecting, preventing, and treating TDF-associated disorders.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compounds that act as agonists of the Wnt signalling pathway, compositions comprising these compounds and the uses of these compounds, both therapeutic and in research. The invention also provides methods of identifying compounds that act as agonists of the Wnt signalling pathway.

Abstract: The present application describes a method of culturing, expanding or growing stem or stem-like cells or induced pluripotent stem cells on a surface, including attaching the cells to the surface through a ligand that binds to the surface and the cells.

Abstract: The following class of molecule is disclosed: a dimer containing a first neublastin polypeptide and a second neublastin polypeptide, wherein: (a) at least one of the polypeptides is glycosylated; (b) at least one of the polypeptides is conjugated at its N-terminus to a water-soluble synthetic polymer; and (c) neither of the polypeptides is conjugated to a water-soluble synthetic polymer at a position other than the N-terminus. Such dimers possess the biological activity of wild-type neublastin while displaying enhanced serum half-life and enhanced potency relative to wild-type neublastin.

Abstract: A fusion protein comprising domain (a) which is the functional fragment of a hTRAIL protein sequence, which fragment begins with an amino acid at a position not lower than hTRAIL95, or a homolog of said functional fragment having at least 70% sequence identity; and at least one domain (b) which is the sequence of an effector peptide having anti-proliferative activity against tumour cells, wherein the sequence of domain (b) is attached at the C-terminus or at the N-terminus of domain (a). The fusion protein can be used for the treatment of cancer diseases.

Abstract: A biologically engineered stent for treating patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction/ischemia. The stent is inserted in a vessel upstream to and proximal the damaged muscle/ischemic area. The stent elutes Stromal Derived Factor (SDF1)/CXCR4 complex and/or Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) to attract autologous stem cell for the repair of damaged myocardium or tissues and inducing vascularization (creation of collateral vessels) to the ischemic area. The SDF1/CXCR4 acts as a homing mechanism for stem cells. Stem cell mobilizing agents such as Gm-CSF, GCSF and Plerixafor, as a CXCR4 blocker, may be added systemically to assist in stem mobilization. A protocol consisting of multiple doses of Gm-CSF or GCSF may be given in order to mobilize stem cells from the patient. Optionally, stem cells may be injected into the patient. The treatment stimulates repair and improves survival of damaged myocardium and prevents ventricular remodeling.

Abstract: The present invention provides new systems and strategies for the regulation of iron metabolism in mammals. In particular, methods of using agonists and antagonists of TGF-? superfamily members to modulate the expression or activity of hepcidin, a key regulator of iron metabolism, are described. The inventive methods find applications in the treatment of diseases associated with iron overload, such as juvenile hemochromatosis and adult hemochromatosis, and in the treatment of diseases associated with iron deficiency, such as anemia of chronic disease and EPO resistant anemia in end-stage of renal disease. The present invention also relates to screening tools and methods for the development of novel drugs and therapies for treating iron metabolism disorders.

Abstract: Disclosed are 1-(arylmethyl)quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones thereof, represented by the Formula (I) wherein Ar, R1-R6 are defined herein. Compounds having Formula (I) are PARP inhibitors. Therefore, compounds of the invention may be used to treat clinical conditions that are responsive to the inhibition of PARP activity.

Abstract: Compositions, methods of manufacture and methods of treatment for post-myocardial infarction are herein disclosed. In some embodiments, the composition includes at least two components. In one embodiment, a first component can include a first functionalized polymer and a substance having at least one cell adhesion site combined in a first buffer at a pH of approximately 6.5. A second component can include a second buffer in a pH of between about 7.5 and 9.0. A second functionalized polymer can be included in the first or second component. In some embodiments, the composition can include at least one cell type and/or at least one growth factor. In some embodiments, the composition(s) of the present invention can be delivered by a dual bore injection device to a treatment area, such as a post-myocardial infarct region.

Abstract: Provided are methods of simulating tissue healing. The methods comprise using a mechanistic computer model of the interrelated effects of inflammation, tissue damage or dysfunction and tissue healing to predict an outcome of healing of damaged tissue in vivo, thereby predicting the outcome of healing of damaged tissue in vivo. Implementations of these methods on a computing device also are provided. Non-limiting examples of diseases and/or conditions that are amenable to simulation according to the methods described herein include: a diabetes, diabetic foot ulcers, necrotizing enterocolitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease, restenosis (post-angioplasty or stent implantation), incisional wounding, excisional wounding, surgery, accidental trauma, pressure ulcer, stasis ulcer, tendon rupture, vocal fold phonotrauma, otitis media and pancreatitis.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are described, including materials and methods for making molecules and materials that have a specific binding domain of a PlGF2. Embodiments include, for instance, medicaments, biomaterials, biomolecules, molecular fusions, and vaccines.